A life changing road traffic collision left Kaushik with a serious brain injury and the need to have three fingers amputated from his left hand. Our Serious Injury team helped Kaushik access specialist treatment and rehabilitation to aid his recovery and turn his concern into determination. Kaushik is now being supported by our Asset Management team to protect his finances and his future.
Kaushik studied computing at university. He was planning to start a masters degree, then find full time employment.
On the way home from his first day at a part-time job, his plans changed forever. Kaushik was a passenger in a taxi which was involved in a road traffic collision.
Two months later, Kaushik instructed our serious injury expert, Chani Dhaliwal, to investigate his case. Chani and his team helped Kaushik to secure the treatment he needed to manage his pain and rebuild his life. After everything he’s been through, Kaushik is hopeful for the future, despite all the challenges he’s faced and continues to face.
The Accident That Turned Kaushik’s Life Upside Down
In May 2016, Kaushik was being driven home from his first day at work, when the taxi driver lost control of the car, collided with a tree and ended up in a ditch. Kaushik was taken to the Royal London hospital.
He suffered a traumatic brain injury, fractures to his skull, and multiple rib fractures with lung contusions. He also suffered spinal fractures and a fractured left shoulder blade and wrist. A severe complex injury to his left hand caused his middle, little and ring fingers to be amputated and the partial loss of his thumb. These injuries left him in excruciating pain and unable to move.
When he first woke up he didn’t believe it was real. Kaushik recalls, “This is what I’m dreaming, while sleeping in the car”. It took around four weeks until he began to realise the severity of what had happened to him. After speaking to his Mum for the first time, it really sunk in.
The Mental Impact Of His Injuries
It was a really difficult time for Kaushik. He had trouble making sense of everything and he struggled to find proper care after being discharged from hospital. The pain in his hand and restricted movement meant he needed help with self-care and daily tasks.
Kaushik battled with feelings of shame caused by the injury to his hand. He explained, “It’s not just taken my fingers; it has taken the use of my hand and its functionality. Pain is there 24/7 and my hand is always in my pocket”. He struggled to accept support from his friends, feeling bad for relying on them too much. He’s also had to adapt the way he takes part in cultural customs and traditions, which intensified his negative feelings towards his injuries.
Having a brain injury means everyday looks different for Kaushik. He recalls, “Sometimes you feel good, sometimes you feel bad. And it doesn’t just affect your physical stamina, but also your psychological well-being”. He had suicidal thoughts, but speaking to his Mum made him determined not to give up, and to get better.
Supporting Kaushik With His Recovery
After two months in hospital, Kaushik started talking to another patient who told him about personal injury claims. Kaushik said, “I’m an immigrant, so I had no idea about a personal injury case or whom to contact.” The patient gave Kaushik Irwin Mitchell’s details and contacted us on his behalf.
After meeting Chani, his solicitor, for the first time and finding him professional, Kaushik decided to give his case to us.
Chani travelled to India to gather information from his friends working in IT. They were able to conduct the interviews, print out the documents and get them signed, all within a week. Kaushik remembers, “That was exceptional for me, and it showed commitment to the case”.
Our expert advice meant we were able to arrange inpatient rehabilitation for Kaushik. Intensive therapy and support coming to terms with his injuries helped him make significant progress. He’s still undergoing community rehabilitation and has support from a psychologist, a psychiatrist and an occupational therapist. His life’s changed dramatically, but he’s adapted incredibly well despite his daily challenges.
When his case settled, Kaushik was overjoyed. He felt secure about his future and about his health; he couldn’t thank Chani enough.
Looking Ahead To Brighter Days
Kaushik is now working with our Asset Management team to secure his financial future.
He likes to keep himself busy with different activities such as attending a variety of live sporting events. After his accident, he didn’t think he’d ever be able to continue his hobbies, but due to his determination, he’s started horse riding and he’s learning how to play golf.
Kaushik explains, “What makes me happy is a smile on my Mum’s face, a day without pain, or an email from Chani.”
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an accident, our serious injury solicitors may be able to help. Speak to our friendly team to learn more – call today on 0370 1500 100.
